THE EMINENCE OF THE SHINOBI WORLD

Chapter 6: CH- 6 NEXT PHASE



Naruto Uzumaki, Akane Uzumaki, Satsuki Uchiha, and Sakura Haruno stood before their new sensei, Kakashi Hatake. The bell test had been grueling, testing their teamwork and cunning. Despite their initial lack of coordination, the team's collective effort led to their success when Naruto's strategic thinking and Akane's support emphasized the value of working together. Kakashi passed them, delivering his now-famous mantra: "Those who break the rules are scum, but those who abandon their comrades are worse than scum."

 

As the sun set, Naruto returned home with Akane. After ensuring she was settled in for the evening, he created a wood clone to take his place. The real Naruto slipped away to his sub-space—the Celestial Citadel—a dimension linked to his Rinnegan. The space was vast and otherworldly, with its vaulted ceilings and swirling patterns that seemed alive, illuminated by an ethereal glow that shifted with Naruto's emotions.

 

Report from the Shadow Garden

 

Inside the Celestial Citadel, Naruto was greeted by members of the Shadow Garden. Mikoto Uchiha, known as Alpha, stood at the forefront in her signature ebony and gold uniform. The other members, including Beta, Gamma, and Delta, stood in formation, awaiting his command. Each member radiated an aura of professionalism and power, their loyalty to Shadow unwavering.

 

"Shadow-sama," Alpha began, her voice firm but respectful. "Uzumaki Industries has expanded its reach significantly. Branches are now established in the Land of Tea, the Land of Birds, and other minor nations. The villagers welcome the stability and opportunities we bring, unaware of the true purpose behind the enterprise."

 

Beta stepped forward with a detailed report. "The funds we appropriated from Danzo's hidden caches have been completely utilized to establish and expand the company's operations. Despite Danzo's extensive network, no one has traced the operations back to us. We have also secured trade routes through alliances with local merchants and daimyo."

 

Gamma added, "The infrastructure projects we've initiated have further strengthened our influence. Roads, schools, and clinics funded by Uzumaki Industries are earning us goodwill while masking our deeper operations."

 

Naruto nodded, pleased with their progress. "Excellent work. Remember, our mission is to protect the innocent and dismantle corruption wherever it festers. Maintain absolute secrecy. If anyone discovers our operations, neutralize the threat quietly."

 

The members of the Shadow Garden saluted in unison, their resolve clear.

 

"Shadow-sama," Alpha continued, "Haku has fully integrated into the Shadow Garden. Her skills as an assassin and her knowledge of medicinal herbs make her an invaluable asset. She's currently overseeing operations in the Land of Water."

 

Naruto's expression softened slightly. "Good. Ensure she's supported. Her past may weigh on her, but here, she has a purpose."

 

With the meeting concluded, Naruto returned to his room, dispelling the wood clone. Joining Akane for dinner, he smiled as she recounted her day. The siblings enjoyed their quiet moments together, even as Naruto's mind remained on the responsibilities he bore in the shadows.

 

The Wave Mission

 

Team 7's routine of D-rank missions was interrupted when they received their first C-rank mission—escorting Tazuna, a bridge builder, to the Land of Waves. The mission began with an ambush by rogue ninja, testing the team's mettle. Naruto and Akane worked in perfect harmony, their bond as twins evident in their seamless teamwork. Satsuki's sharp tactical mind and Sakura's growing confidence rounded out their efforts.

 

The confrontation with Zabuza Momochi brought challenges and revelations. During their battles, Naruto's heartfelt words of understanding reached Haku, convincing her to fake her death and join the Shadow Garden. Naruto orchestrated the deception meticulously, ensuring that neither Zabuza nor the rest of Team 7 suspected her survival.

 

Upon their return to Konoha, Haku was fully inducted into the Shadow Garden, her skills and loyalty making her an integral part of their operations.

 

The Chunin Exams

 

Two months later, the Chunin Exams began. The events unfolded as in the original timeline, with Naruto and his teammates demonstrating their growth and resolve. During the Forest of Death, Naruto's hidden strength played a critical role, while Akane's tactical prowess and Satsuki's determination cemented their teamwork. Unknown to most, Naruto used the exams to gather intelligence, subtly observing the participants for potential allies or threats to the Shadow Garden.

 

Flashback End

 

Naruto's mind returned to the present as he stood in the Celestial Citadel. Before him was Mikoto, now fully clad in her Alpha uniform. Her presence exuded authority and elegance, a testament to her position as his second-in-command.

 

"It's remarkable how far we've come," Mikoto began. "The Shadow Garden has grown into a force to be reckoned with. We've saved countless lives, dismantled criminal organizations, and ensured that Uzumaki Industries thrives."

 

Naruto nodded, his Rinnegan glowing faintly. "We'll do whatever it takes to protect the innocent. What's the latest on our bingo book entries?"

 

Mikoto smirked, producing a scroll. "Shadow and Alpha are both listed as S-rank threats. Here's what's written:"

 

Bingo Book Entries

 

Name: ShadowRank: S-rankAffiliation: UnknownDescription: A mysterious figure who appears in a dark, flowing cloak. Known for wielding immense power, including advanced space-time jutsu, Wood Style, and mastery of multiple kekkei genkai. Responsible for dismantling numerous criminal organizations and rumored to command the Shadow Garden. His true identity remains a mystery. Avoid confrontation at all costs.

 

Name: AlphaRank: S-rankAffiliation: UnknownDescription: A woman of unparalleled skill, dressed in an elegant yet combat-ready ebony and gold uniform. Known for her strategic mind and combat prowess. Second-in-command of the Shadow Garden and a rumored protector of her clan. True identity unknown. Extremely dangerous.

 

Mission to Find Tsunade

 

Naruto's thoughts were interrupted by a summons from the Third Hokage. Arriving at the Hokage's office with Akane, they listened as Hiruzen briefed them on their next mission: to locate and bring back Tsunade Senju, one of the legendary Sannin.

 

Hiruzen's gaze was steady. "This mission is critical. Tsunade's medical expertise is unmatched, and her presence is vital for the future of Konoha. I trust the two of you to succeed."

 

Naruto and Akane exchanged determined looks. "We won't let you down, Jiji," Naruto promised, his mind already formulating a plan for the journey ahead.

 

As they left the office, Mikoto watched from a distance, her expression thoughtful. The Shadow Garden's reach was vast, but their mission was far from over.


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